Multi-Functional Cryogenic Storage Vessel

Abstract

Systems and devices with enhanced stability to kinetic impact for the containment of cryogenically preserved material. A device comprising a vessel with increased surface to volume ratio when compared to cylindrical vessels of like capacity, and further comprising a material that remains resistant to shock and impact at cryogenic temperatures while providing a continuous barrier of a single material surrounding the vessel contents. The device further comprising a design that may be readily modified to include internalized sensors, enhanced interfacing to external instruments, provide optimized thaw rate, and post-thawing sample processing capabilities.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates to vessel devices that securely contain frozen cell suspensions at cryogenic temperatures while also providing enhanced protection from impact, shock, and acceleration damage. The invention also pertains to cryogenic storage vessels having sensors and communication interfaces. In addition, the invention relates to cryogenic storage vessels that facilitate the interaction of the vessels with other devices during storage, transport, the thawing process, and after the thawing process. Lastly, the invention relates to cryogenic storage vessels configured to accommodate fluidic procedures and cell processing in a container stored within the vessel and prior to removal of the vessel contents after thawing.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The field of live-cell based pharmacology has been well established and will continue to expand and advance further in the future. Many of the cell-based therapeutics require cell populations to be expand...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention relates to devices that provide protection for liquid samples that are subsequently frozen and stored for cryopreservation. The invention provides cryogenic storage vessels that can withstand impact, shock, and damage from mechanical forces, while still allowing for limited adjustment to the volumetric capacity through the use of a single material that is seamlessly joined. The vessels are designed to have a complete and continuous interior surface, which is joined in a seam by a fusion bond. The dimensions of the vessel can be adjusted to control the surface-to-volume ratio, and the vessel can be sterilized and divided into separate compartments. The invention also includes access ports that are protected from damage, and a valve mechanism that allows for the transfer of cells from one chamber to another. The valve is opened when the vessel is subjected to sufficient centrifugal force.

Problems solved by technology

In some instances, the vessels are constructed from cryogenic-compatible materials that provide toughness, reduced embrittlement, maximize flexibility and resistance to shock and stress fracture at cryogenic temperatures, while being sufficiently flexible and pliant at ambient and aqueous solution freezing temperatures to allow limited adjustment to the volumetric capacity by compressive mechanical forces or by expansion pressure of the aqueous contents upon solidification.

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